Maya’s POV
“Who is there?” I called, my heart hammering so violently that I could hear it in my ears.
There was no answer.
Only another knock.
This one was weaker than the last, almost hesitant, as though whoever stood outside was barely able to remain standing.
I glanced at the clock hanging on the wall.
3:36 a.m.
My chest tightened.
No one should have been knocking on my door at this hour.
Not after everything that had happened tonight.
For one terrifying moment, I wondered if Julian had changed his mind. Maybe he had regretted letting me leave. Maybe he had sent someone to drag me back to the underground club before sunrise.
Another knock echoed through the tiny house.
It sounded desperate.
I swallowed hard before forcing myself toward the door.
Every step felt painfully s
